children's services
The Retreat offers individual and group counseling for children in both the residential and non-residential program. Our counselors are trained in “play therapy,” a method to creatively make children feel comfortable and express their feelings, as well as other techniques. Topics focus on healthy relationships, respect and well-being. Recently, a local donor underwrote the construction of a “bright space”. Bright Horizons, is an organization that creates wonderful children’s playrooms in shelters all over the country. They recently came to the Retreat. Everything from dress up clothes and art supplies, to a stage loft was brought in to enhance the Retreat’s creative art and recreation program. In addition to this wonderful space, Retreat children go to Camp Karole during the summer, and go to the movies, to museums, to the circus, and participate in other outdoor activities as determined appropriate by shelter staff. The Retreat is fortunate to have a wonderful group of volunteers to call upon for extracurricular activities when needed
parenting education
Our parenting group meets once a week at the Retreat Shelter and is specifically designed to address parenting topics and to trouble shoot real issues that the women and children in our shelter are coping with. Topics include:
- Parental roles vs. children roles in a family.
- Correct modes of discipline.
- Instilling respect and well being of oneself and others while temporary homeless.
Clients in our non-residentail program are able to address parenting issues in their group and individual counseling sessions as needed.
nutrition workshops
In a family where domestic violence occurs, basic needs are often eclipsed by crisis. At the Retreat, NY State certified nutritionists and Retreat volunteers provide nutritional counseling. Our clients learn about the food pyramid, meal planning, and the importance of a well balanced diet. Women that actually stay with us in the shelter are given food free of charge, and they share evening meal preparation responsibilities. We also offer nutritional counseling for many clients that we support who are not living in our safe haven, (and we’re able to help advocate for food stamps when necessary.)
residential support services
The Retreat provides free transportation to courts, hospitals and doctors' visits, child care, free clothing and assistance in securing medical assistance through Department of Social Services and transitional housing.
It was difficult enough to flee my home with my child, but the thought of having to go through the court process for an order of protection and custody was terrifying. Thank you for your support and guidance, along with getting me an attorney. I don't think I could have faced my daughter's father alone.
-name withheld